Barbara Kane Kontny,, 80

Wednesday

Centerville, formerly of Worcester, passed on at the home of her daughter Debra Samia, Sunday, September 26, 2010, after a brief illness.

Barbara was surrounded by her husband of 39 years, Gerald R. Kontny, family and friends.

Born on October 3, 1929 in Worcester to the late Albert and Lila (Standring) Kane, formerly of Worcester, Barbara was a graduate of Commerce High School and was considered a pioneer in enhancing the progression of women within the banking and real estate industry.

She was the founder, director and Chairwoman of the Worcester County Board of Real Estate Brokers Association. In 1967, Barbara was presented with the Outstanding Service Award for the Woman of the Year from the same organization.

Barbara was also the president of the Worcester Sales Executives Club as well as the first female president of the Worcester Executives. Barbara went on to become Vice-President of Shawmut Bank until her retirement in 1989.

She was also extremely dedicated and influential in raising donations in support of the Easter Seals.

In addition to her husband, Barbara is survived by her daughter, Debra Samia of Centerville, and son, David Kontny and his wife Nancy of Montclair, VA. Barbara also leaves four grandchildren, Elizabeth Samia, Scott Samia and his wife Neela, Katelyn Samia, and Ashley Samia. Barbara also leaves her three great-grandchildren, Devon Page, Chloe Samia, Lalana Samia; and brothers, Albert, Charlie, Richard, Robert and Thomas Kane.

The funeral Mass will be Friday, Oct. 1 at 11 a.m. at Blessed Sacrament Church, 555 Pleasant St., Worcester. Entombment will be in Notre Dame Mausoleum, Worcester. There are no calling hours.